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Notable deaths of 2016

From superstar celebs to political pillars, many famous faces left us this year

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Updated: 8:54 PM EST Dec 28, 2016

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Notable deaths of 2016

1 of 47

Debbie Reynolds (Died Dec. 28 at 84)

The legendary actress was best known for her classic roles in "Singin’ in the Rain" and "The Unsinkable Molly Brown."

PHOTO: Richard Drew, AP

2 of 47

Carrie Fisher (Died Dec. 27 at 60)

She became a pop culture icon for her role as Princess Leia in the original "Star Wars" trilogy and returned for the role in 2015's "The Force Awakens" and next year's "Episode VIII." Fisher was impactful in the real world, as well, advocating for care for mental illness and drug abuse. She struggled with both.

PHOTO: AP

3 of 47

Ricky Harris (Died Dec. 26 at 54)

Comedian and actor Ricky Harris, who had arecurring role in Chris Rock's "Everybody Hates Chris" sitcom andvoiced several characters that appeared in Hip Hop albums, has died. He was 54.

PHOTO: Snoop Dogg instagram

4 of 47

George Michael (Died Dec. 25 at 53)

Michael was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayitou in 1963. He was a member of the pop duo Wham! from 1981 to 1986. Wham! sold more than 25 million albums.

Michael sold more than 80 million records worldwide as a solo artist. His first album, "Faith," sold more than 20 million copies. Billboard magazine named Michael the 40th most successful artist on its Hot 100 Top All Time Artists List in 2008. His many hits included "Careless Whisper," "Freedom" and "Father Figure."

PHOTO: AP

5 of 47

Michele Morgan (Died Dec. 20 at 96)

Michele Morgan was a French actress who starred with Humphrey Bogart and Frank Sinatra and was the first winner of Cannes' best actress award.

6 of 47

Zsa Zsa Gabor (Died Dec. 18 at 99)

The Hungarian-born actress and socialite married nine times. Her 30-year marriage to Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt was her last and longest.

PHOTO: Photo by Classic Film Scans, flickr

7 of 47

Craig Sager (Died Dec. 15 at 65)

The long-time NBA sideline reporter for TNT and TBS who previously worked for CBS and CNN.

PHOTO: AP

8 of 47

Bernard Fox (Died December 14 at 89)

Bernard Fox, known to TV viewers as Dr. Bombay on "Bewitched" and Col. Crittendon on "Hogan's Heroes," died of heart failure at age 89. The Welsh-born actor's extensive, wide-ranging film and TV credits included "The Mummy," ''Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo," ''The Dyke Van Dyke Show," ''McHale's Navy" and "Columbo." He appeared in both the 1997 movie "Titanic" and in the 1958 version of the ship tragedy "A Night to Remember."

PHOTO: AP Images

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9 of 47

Alan Thicke (Died Dec. 13 at 69)

The iconic father on the show Growing Pains died of a heart attack. He most recently appeared on Fuller House - the Netflix reboot of Full House.

PHOTO: Photo by Rich Fury/Invision/AP

10 of 47

John Glenn (Died Dec. 8 at 95)

Astronaut, American hero and U.S. Senator. His legacy will carry on as one of America's (and the world's) space pioneers.

PHOTO: AP

11 of 47

Joe McKnight (Died Dec. 1 at 28)

He was a star player for the University of Southern California and went on to play in the NFL. McKnight's life was cut tragically short when he was fatally shot during a road rage incident in home state of Louisiana.

PHOTO: AP

12 of 47

Fidel Castro (Died Nov. 25 at 90)

As the longtime leader of Cuba, this revolutionary leader's controversial communist regime brought him into conflict with the U.S. often, especially at the height of the Cold War.

13 of 47

Florence Henderson (Died Nov. 24 at 82)

Henderson's most memorable role will always be that of Carol, the matriarch of "The Brady Bunch," but she had a distinguished career before and after the sitcom.

PHOTO: AP

14 of 47

Sharon Jones (Died Nov. 18 at 60)

Leading The Dap Kings with a powerful and moving voice, this soul singer earned even more fans for her cancer fight.

PHOTO: AP

15 of 47

Gwen Ifill (Died November 14 at 61)

Ifill died 61 after a yearlong battle with cancer. A former reporter for The New York Times and The Washington Post, Ifill transitioned to television in the 1990s, covering politics and Congress for NBC News. She moved to PBS in 1999 as host of "Washington Week" and also worked for "NewsHour." She moderated vice presidential debates in 2004 and 2008.

PHOTO: AP Images

16 of 47

Leon Russell (Died November 13 at 74)

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native died in his sleep at age 74. Leon Russell recorded hit songs such as "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue," and participated in "The Concert for Bangladesh." John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison played on his first album, "Leon Russell." He was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

PHOTO: AP Images

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17 of 47

Janet Reno (Died Nov. 7 at 78)

Reno was the United States' first female attorney general, serving under Bill Clinton, and had the second longest tenure ever in the post.

PHOTO: In this Tuesday, April 13, 2004, file photo, former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno testifies before the commission investigating the Sept. 11 attacks on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.

18 of 47

Leonard Cohen (Died Nov. 7 at 82)

This enigmatic songwriter's "Hallelujah" may have been his most popular ballad, but he had a long career of creating music that explored themes such of love, faith and death.

PHOTO: AP

19 of 47

Arnold Palmer (Died Sept. 25 at 87)

Few athletes have had as large of an impact on their sport as this golfer nicknamed The King, who won seven majors and is credited with popularizing golf for the masses.

PHOTO: AP

20 of 47

Jose Fernandez (Died Sept. 25 at 24)

Baseball lost one of its brightest young stars and Cuban-Americans lost a hero when the pitcher died in a boating accident in Miami.

PHOTO: AP Photo/David Goldman

21 of 47

Phyllis Schafly (Died Sept. 5 at 92)

A legend among conservative activists, she made waves with her opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment and her takes on many women's issues.

22 of 47

Jerry Heller (Died Sept. 2 at 75)

It seems unlikely that the man who helped introduce the U.S. to Elton John and Pink Floyd would be the same man to manage gangsta rap group N.W.A., but this music industry veteran certainly had an ear for talent.

PHOTO: AP

23 of 47

Gene Wilder (Died Aug. 29 at 83)

Starring in "Young Frankenstein" and "Blazing Saddles," this comedic actor's collaborations with Mel Brooks are cinematic classics, though he also stood out when paired with Richard Pryor or on his own in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory."

PHOTO: AP

24 of 47

John McLaughlin (Died Aug. 16 at 89)

One of the country's foremost political commentator's, he hosted "The McLaughlin Group" from 1982 until his death.

PHOTO: AP

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25 of 47

Kenny Baker (Died Aug 13 at 81)

Baker was the man inside the can as the operator of lovable droid R2-D2 in the "Star Wars" films.

PHOTO: AP

26 of 47

Elie Wiesel (Died July 2 at 87)

This Jewish author's story "Night" describes his experiences in Nazi-run concentration camps, and his work as a steadfast defender of human rights led to a Nobel Peace Prize.

PHOTO: AP

27 of 47

Buddy Ryan (Died June 28 at 85)

Architect of the revered 1985 Chicago Bears defense, Ryan had a long, fruitful career working primarily behind the scenes.

PHOTO: AP

28 of 47

Pat Summit (Died June 28 at 64)

With 1,098 victories, no college basketball coach has won as many games as this Tennessee legend. Her resume includes eight national championships and a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics.

PHOTO: AP

29 of 47

Anton Yelchin (Died June 19 at 27)

One of Hollywood's bright young stars, he was best known for his performance as Chekhov in the new "Star Trek" films. His life was tragically cut short after dying by pinned against a wall by his car in a freak accident.

PHOTO: AP

30 of 47

Muhammad Ali (Died June 3 at 74)

Dubbed (often by himself) The Greatest, Ali lived up to that title as a champion boxer in the '60s and '70s, but the boisterous legend's greatest may have come outside of the ring during the social tumult of that era.

PHOTO: AP

31 of 47

Gordie Howe (Died June 10 at 88)

Mr. Hockey. It takes a lot to be nicknamed after an entire sport, but that was the legacy of this Detroit Red Wings all-timer who won six league MVP awards.

PHOTO: AP

32 of 47

Morley Safer (Died May 19 at 84)

The iconic “60 minutes” correspondent and CBS newsman died at the age of 84. CBS reports that Safer was a “huge presence on 60 minutes for 46 years.” "Morley was one of the most important journalists in any medium, ever," said CBS Chairman and CEO, Leslie Moonves. "He broke ground in war reporting and made a name that will forever be synonymous with 60 Minutes … .”

PHOTO: AP Images

Advertisement

33 of 47

Prince (Died April 21 at 57)

A brilliant talent, whether playing his guitar or showing off his incredible vocal range, this superstar was one of the best-selling musicians of all time. His 1984 record "Purple Rain" is considered his finest work.

MerleHaggard was a performer and songwriter who passed away at age 79, according to CMT.Haggard’s music combined a wide range of genres, suchas country, jazz, blues, and folk.Throughout his career, Haggard was a championof the working man, largely due to his rough-and-tumble history, reported CMT.

PHOTO: AP Images

36 of 47

Patty Duke (Died March 29 at 69)

A star from her teenage years, she won Emmys and Golden Globes for her roles, but her most important work may have been her mental health advocacy.

PHOTO: AP

37 of 47

Garry Shandling (Died March 24 at 66)

One of the transformative comedians of the late 20th century, he won great acclaim for the "The Larry Sanders Show."

PHOTO: AP

38 of 47

Sir George Martin ( Died March 9 at 90)

Martin died at the age of 90. He was most notably recognized as a producer of many of the Beatles’ songs. According to the Rolling Stone, Martin was affectionately called“The fifth Beatle.”

PHOTO: AP Images

39 of 47

Nancy Reagan (Died March 6 at 94)

First Lady to President Ronald Reagan, this former actress played an influential role in her husband's political life, though their romance also captured the nation's hearts. In the White House, one of her chief causes was drug abuse prevention.

PHOTO: AP

40 of 47

George Kennedy (Died Feb. 28 at 91)

A prolific performer, he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for 1967's "Cool Hand Luke" and stayed active in Hollywood for decades. His roles in the "Naked Gun" series and "Dallas" stand out.

PHOTO: AP

Advertisement

41 of 47

Harper Lee (Died Feb. 19 at 89)

This author's best known work is the American classic "To Kill a Mockingbird," as well as her work with Truman Capote.

PHOTO: AP

42 of 47

Boutros Boutros-Ghali (Died Feb. 16 at 93)

He was a renowned Egyptian politician who eventually rose to Secretary-General of the United Nations.

PHOTO: AP

43 of 47

Antonin Scalia (Died Feb. 13 at 79)

A fierce conservative member of the Supreme Court for nearly 30 years, Scalia chief focus on the bench was using an originalist interpretation of the Constitution in his decisions. His sudden death left a void in the court that had a major effect on the presidential race.

PHOTO: AP

44 of 47

Abe Vigoda (Jan. 26 at 94)

Famed for playing Tessio in "The Godfather," he was also an Emmy-winner for his work on "Barney Miller." False reports of his death were an ongoing joke he embraced for many years.

PHOTO: AP

45 of 47

Glenn Frey (January 18, 2016 at 67)

The musician passed away on January 18 due to complications with Rheumatoid Arthritis, said the Eagles website. Frey was 67 at the time and best known for being a founding member of the Eagles.

PHOTO: AP Images

46 of 47

Alan Rickman (Died Jan. 14 at 69)

From a gentlemanly thief in "Die Hard" to Harry Potter's dourly antagonistic professor, Rickman was a captivating and beloved screen presence.

PHOTO: AP

47 of 47

David Bowie (Died Jan. 10 at 69)

"Icon" may not be a strong enough word to describe this genre-bending British rocker whose alter ego, "Ziggy Stardust," made him a leading figure of glam rock in the '70s. He remained a force in the music world and released his final album just two days before his death.

The legendary actress was best known for her classic roles in "Singin’ in the Rain" and "The Unsinkable Molly Brown."

PHOTO: Richard Drew, AP

Carrie Fisher (Died Dec. 27 at 60)

She became a pop culture icon for her role as Princess Leia in the original "Star Wars" trilogy and returned for the role in 2015's "The Force Awakens" and next year's "Episode VIII." Fisher was impactful in the real world, as well, advocating for care for mental illness and drug abuse. She struggled with both.

PHOTO: AP

Ricky Harris (Died Dec. 26 at 54)

Comedian and actor Ricky Harris, who had arecurring role in Chris Rock's "Everybody Hates Chris" sitcom andvoiced several characters that appeared in Hip Hop albums, has died. He was 54.

PHOTO: Snoop Dogg instagram

George Michael (Died Dec. 25 at 53)

Michael was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayitou in 1963. He was a member of the pop duo Wham! from 1981 to 1986. Wham! sold more than 25 million albums.

Michael sold more than 80 million records worldwide as a solo artist. His first album, "Faith," sold more than 20 million copies. Billboard magazine named Michael the 40th most successful artist on its Hot 100 Top All Time Artists List in 2008. His many hits included "Careless Whisper," "Freedom" and "Father Figure."

PHOTO: AP

Michele Morgan (Died Dec. 20 at 96)

Michele Morgan was a French actress who starred with Humphrey Bogart and Frank Sinatra and was the first winner of Cannes' best actress award.

Zsa Zsa Gabor (Died Dec. 18 at 99)

The Hungarian-born actress and socialite married nine times. Her 30-year marriage to Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt was her last and longest.

PHOTO: Photo by Classic Film Scans, flickr

Craig Sager (Died Dec. 15 at 65)

The long-time NBA sideline reporter for TNT and TBS who previously worked for CBS and CNN.

PHOTO: AP

Bernard Fox (Died December 14 at 89)

Bernard Fox, known to TV viewers as Dr. Bombay on "Bewitched" and Col. Crittendon on "Hogan's Heroes," died of heart failure at age 89. The Welsh-born actor's extensive, wide-ranging film and TV credits included "The Mummy," ''Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo," ''The Dyke Van Dyke Show," ''McHale's Navy" and "Columbo." He appeared in both the 1997 movie "Titanic" and in the 1958 version of the ship tragedy "A Night to Remember."

PHOTO: AP Images

Alan Thicke (Died Dec. 13 at 69)

The iconic father on the show Growing Pains died of a heart attack. He most recently appeared on Fuller House - the Netflix reboot of Full House.

PHOTO: Photo by Rich Fury/Invision/AP

John Glenn (Died Dec. 8 at 95)

Astronaut, American hero and U.S. Senator. His legacy will carry on as one of America's (and the world's) space pioneers.

PHOTO: AP

Joe McKnight (Died Dec. 1 at 28)

He was a star player for the University of Southern California and went on to play in the NFL. McKnight's life was cut tragically short when he was fatally shot during a road rage incident in home state of Louisiana.

PHOTO: AP

Fidel Castro (Died Nov. 25 at 90)

As the longtime leader of Cuba, this revolutionary leader's controversial communist regime brought him into conflict with the U.S. often, especially at the height of the Cold War.

Florence Henderson (Died Nov. 24 at 82)

Henderson's most memorable role will always be that of Carol, the matriarch of "The Brady Bunch," but she had a distinguished career before and after the sitcom.

PHOTO: AP

Sharon Jones (Died Nov. 18 at 60)

Leading The Dap Kings with a powerful and moving voice, this soul singer earned even more fans for her cancer fight.

PHOTO: AP

Gwen Ifill (Died November 14 at 61)

Ifill died 61 after a yearlong battle with cancer. A former reporter for The New York Times and The Washington Post, Ifill transitioned to television in the 1990s, covering politics and Congress for NBC News. She moved to PBS in 1999 as host of "Washington Week" and also worked for "NewsHour." She moderated vice presidential debates in 2004 and 2008.

PHOTO: AP Images

Leon Russell (Died November 13 at 74)

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native died in his sleep at age 74. Leon Russell recorded hit songs such as "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue," and participated in "The Concert for Bangladesh." John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison played on his first album, "Leon Russell." He was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

PHOTO: AP Images

Janet Reno (Died Nov. 7 at 78)

Reno was the United States' first female attorney general, serving under Bill Clinton, and had the second longest tenure ever in the post.

PHOTO: In this Tuesday, April 13, 2004, file photo, former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno testifies before the commission investigating the Sept. 11 attacks on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.

Leonard Cohen (Died Nov. 7 at 82)

This enigmatic songwriter's "Hallelujah" may have been his most popular ballad, but he had a long career of creating music that explored themes such of love, faith and death.

PHOTO: AP

Arnold Palmer (Died Sept. 25 at 87)

Few athletes have had as large of an impact on their sport as this golfer nicknamed The King, who won seven majors and is credited with popularizing golf for the masses.

PHOTO: AP

Jose Fernandez (Died Sept. 25 at 24)

Baseball lost one of its brightest young stars and Cuban-Americans lost a hero when the pitcher died in a boating accident in Miami.

PHOTO: AP Photo/David Goldman

Phyllis Schafly (Died Sept. 5 at 92)

A legend among conservative activists, she made waves with her opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment and her takes on many women's issues.

Jerry Heller (Died Sept. 2 at 75)

It seems unlikely that the man who helped introduce the U.S. to Elton John and Pink Floyd would be the same man to manage gangsta rap group N.W.A., but this music industry veteran certainly had an ear for talent.

PHOTO: AP

Gene Wilder (Died Aug. 29 at 83)

Starring in "Young Frankenstein" and "Blazing Saddles," this comedic actor's collaborations with Mel Brooks are cinematic classics, though he also stood out when paired with Richard Pryor or on his own in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory."

PHOTO: AP

John McLaughlin (Died Aug. 16 at 89)

One of the country's foremost political commentator's, he hosted "The McLaughlin Group" from 1982 until his death.

PHOTO: AP

Kenny Baker (Died Aug 13 at 81)

Baker was the man inside the can as the operator of lovable droid R2-D2 in the "Star Wars" films.

PHOTO: AP

Elie Wiesel (Died July 2 at 87)

This Jewish author's story "Night" describes his experiences in Nazi-run concentration camps, and his work as a steadfast defender of human rights led to a Nobel Peace Prize.

PHOTO: AP

Buddy Ryan (Died June 28 at 85)

Architect of the revered 1985 Chicago Bears defense, Ryan had a long, fruitful career working primarily behind the scenes.

PHOTO: AP

Pat Summit (Died June 28 at 64)

With 1,098 victories, no college basketball coach has won as many games as this Tennessee legend. Her resume includes eight national championships and a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics.

PHOTO: AP

Anton Yelchin (Died June 19 at 27)

One of Hollywood's bright young stars, he was best known for his performance as Chekhov in the new "Star Trek" films. His life was tragically cut short after dying by pinned against a wall by his car in a freak accident.

PHOTO: AP

Muhammad Ali (Died June 3 at 74)

Dubbed (often by himself) The Greatest, Ali lived up to that title as a champion boxer in the '60s and '70s, but the boisterous legend's greatest may have come outside of the ring during the social tumult of that era.

PHOTO: AP

Gordie Howe (Died June 10 at 88)

Mr. Hockey. It takes a lot to be nicknamed after an entire sport, but that was the legacy of this Detroit Red Wings all-timer who won six league MVP awards.

PHOTO: AP

Morley Safer (Died May 19 at 84)

The iconic “60 minutes” correspondent and CBS newsman died at the age of 84. CBS reports that Safer was a “huge presence on 60 minutes for 46 years.” "Morley was one of the most important journalists in any medium, ever," said CBS Chairman and CEO, Leslie Moonves. "He broke ground in war reporting and made a name that will forever be synonymous with 60 Minutes … .”

PHOTO: AP Images

Prince (Died April 21 at 57)

A brilliant talent, whether playing his guitar or showing off his incredible vocal range, this superstar was one of the best-selling musicians of all time. His 1984 record "Purple Rain" is considered his finest work.

MerleHaggard was a performer and songwriter who passed away at age 79, according to CMT.Haggard’s music combined a wide range of genres, suchas country, jazz, blues, and folk.Throughout his career, Haggard was a championof the working man, largely due to his rough-and-tumble history, reported CMT.

PHOTO: AP Images

Patty Duke (Died March 29 at 69)

A star from her teenage years, she won Emmys and Golden Globes for her roles, but her most important work may have been her mental health advocacy.

PHOTO: AP

Garry Shandling (Died March 24 at 66)

One of the transformative comedians of the late 20th century, he won great acclaim for the "The Larry Sanders Show."

PHOTO: AP

Sir George Martin ( Died March 9 at 90)

Martin died at the age of 90. He was most notably recognized as a producer of many of the Beatles’ songs. According to the Rolling Stone, Martin was affectionately called“The fifth Beatle.”

PHOTO: AP Images

Nancy Reagan (Died March 6 at 94)

First Lady to President Ronald Reagan, this former actress played an influential role in her husband's political life, though their romance also captured the nation's hearts. In the White House, one of her chief causes was drug abuse prevention.

PHOTO: AP

George Kennedy (Died Feb. 28 at 91)

A prolific performer, he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for 1967's "Cool Hand Luke" and stayed active in Hollywood for decades. His roles in the "Naked Gun" series and "Dallas" stand out.

PHOTO: AP

Harper Lee (Died Feb. 19 at 89)

This author's best known work is the American classic "To Kill a Mockingbird," as well as her work with Truman Capote.

PHOTO: AP

Boutros Boutros-Ghali (Died Feb. 16 at 93)

He was a renowned Egyptian politician who eventually rose to Secretary-General of the United Nations.

PHOTO: AP

Antonin Scalia (Died Feb. 13 at 79)

A fierce conservative member of the Supreme Court for nearly 30 years, Scalia chief focus on the bench was using an originalist interpretation of the Constitution in his decisions. His sudden death left a void in the court that had a major effect on the presidential race.

PHOTO: AP

Abe Vigoda (Jan. 26 at 94)

Famed for playing Tessio in "The Godfather," he was also an Emmy-winner for his work on "Barney Miller." False reports of his death were an ongoing joke he embraced for many years.

PHOTO: AP

Glenn Frey (January 18, 2016 at 67)

The musician passed away on January 18 due to complications with Rheumatoid Arthritis, said the Eagles website. Frey was 67 at the time and best known for being a founding member of the Eagles.

PHOTO: AP Images

Alan Rickman (Died Jan. 14 at 69)

From a gentlemanly thief in "Die Hard" to Harry Potter's dourly antagonistic professor, Rickman was a captivating and beloved screen presence.

PHOTO: AP

David Bowie (Died Jan. 10 at 69)

"Icon" may not be a strong enough word to describe this genre-bending British rocker whose alter ego, "Ziggy Stardust," made him a leading figure of glam rock in the '70s. He remained a force in the music world and released his final album just two days before his death.

The legendary actress was best known for her classic roles in "Singin’ in the Rain" and "The Unsinkable Molly Brown."

PHOTO: Richard Drew, AP

Carrie Fisher (Died Dec. 27 at 60)

She became a pop culture icon for her role as Princess Leia in the original "Star Wars" trilogy and returned for the role in 2015's "The Force Awakens" and next year's "Episode VIII." Fisher was impactful in the real world, as well, advocating for care for mental illness and drug abuse. She struggled with both.

PHOTO: AP

Ricky Harris (Died Dec. 26 at 54)

Comedian and actor Ricky Harris, who had arecurring role in Chris Rock's "Everybody Hates Chris" sitcom andvoiced several characters that appeared in Hip Hop albums, has died. He was 54.

PHOTO: Snoop Dogg instagram

George Michael (Died Dec. 25 at 53)

Michael was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayitou in 1963. He was a member of the pop duo Wham! from 1981 to 1986. Wham! sold more than 25 million albums.

Michael sold more than 80 million records worldwide as a solo artist. His first album, "Faith," sold more than 20 million copies. Billboard magazine named Michael the 40th most successful artist on its Hot 100 Top All Time Artists List in 2008. His many hits included "Careless Whisper," "Freedom" and "Father Figure."

PHOTO: AP

Michele Morgan (Died Dec. 20 at 96)

Michele Morgan was a French actress who starred with Humphrey Bogart and Frank Sinatra and was the first winner of Cannes' best actress award.

Zsa Zsa Gabor (Died Dec. 18 at 99)

The Hungarian-born actress and socialite married nine times. Her 30-year marriage to Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt was her last and longest.

PHOTO: Photo by Classic Film Scans, flickr

Craig Sager (Died Dec. 15 at 65)

The long-time NBA sideline reporter for TNT and TBS who previously worked for CBS and CNN.

PHOTO: AP

Bernard Fox (Died December 14 at 89)

Bernard Fox, known to TV viewers as Dr. Bombay on "Bewitched" and Col. Crittendon on "Hogan's Heroes," died of heart failure at age 89. The Welsh-born actor's extensive, wide-ranging film and TV credits included "The Mummy," ''Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo," ''The Dyke Van Dyke Show," ''McHale's Navy" and "Columbo." He appeared in both the 1997 movie "Titanic" and in the 1958 version of the ship tragedy "A Night to Remember."

PHOTO: AP Images

Alan Thicke (Died Dec. 13 at 69)

The iconic father on the show Growing Pains died of a heart attack. He most recently appeared on Fuller House - the Netflix reboot of Full House.

PHOTO: Photo by Rich Fury/Invision/AP

John Glenn (Died Dec. 8 at 95)

Astronaut, American hero and U.S. Senator. His legacy will carry on as one of America's (and the world's) space pioneers.

PHOTO: AP

Joe McKnight (Died Dec. 1 at 28)

He was a star player for the University of Southern California and went on to play in the NFL. McKnight's life was cut tragically short when he was fatally shot during a road rage incident in home state of Louisiana.

PHOTO: AP

Fidel Castro (Died Nov. 25 at 90)

As the longtime leader of Cuba, this revolutionary leader's controversial communist regime brought him into conflict with the U.S. often, especially at the height of the Cold War.

Florence Henderson (Died Nov. 24 at 82)

Henderson's most memorable role will always be that of Carol, the matriarch of "The Brady Bunch," but she had a distinguished career before and after the sitcom.

PHOTO: AP

Sharon Jones (Died Nov. 18 at 60)

Leading The Dap Kings with a powerful and moving voice, this soul singer earned even more fans for her cancer fight.

PHOTO: AP

Gwen Ifill (Died November 14 at 61)

Ifill died 61 after a yearlong battle with cancer. A former reporter for The New York Times and The Washington Post, Ifill transitioned to television in the 1990s, covering politics and Congress for NBC News. She moved to PBS in 1999 as host of "Washington Week" and also worked for "NewsHour." She moderated vice presidential debates in 2004 and 2008.

PHOTO: AP Images

Leon Russell (Died November 13 at 74)

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native died in his sleep at age 74. Leon Russell recorded hit songs such as "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue," and participated in "The Concert for Bangladesh." John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison played on his first album, "Leon Russell." He was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

PHOTO: AP Images

Janet Reno (Died Nov. 7 at 78)

Reno was the United States' first female attorney general, serving under Bill Clinton, and had the second longest tenure ever in the post.

PHOTO: In this Tuesday, April 13, 2004, file photo, former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno testifies before the commission investigating the Sept. 11 attacks on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.

Leonard Cohen (Died Nov. 7 at 82)

This enigmatic songwriter's "Hallelujah" may have been his most popular ballad, but he had a long career of creating music that explored themes such of love, faith and death.

PHOTO: AP

Arnold Palmer (Died Sept. 25 at 87)

Few athletes have had as large of an impact on their sport as this golfer nicknamed The King, who won seven majors and is credited with popularizing golf for the masses.

PHOTO: AP

Jose Fernandez (Died Sept. 25 at 24)

Baseball lost one of its brightest young stars and Cuban-Americans lost a hero when the pitcher died in a boating accident in Miami.

PHOTO: AP Photo/David Goldman

Phyllis Schafly (Died Sept. 5 at 92)

A legend among conservative activists, she made waves with her opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment and her takes on many women's issues.

Jerry Heller (Died Sept. 2 at 75)

It seems unlikely that the man who helped introduce the U.S. to Elton John and Pink Floyd would be the same man to manage gangsta rap group N.W.A., but this music industry veteran certainly had an ear for talent.

PHOTO: AP

Gene Wilder (Died Aug. 29 at 83)

Starring in "Young Frankenstein" and "Blazing Saddles," this comedic actor's collaborations with Mel Brooks are cinematic classics, though he also stood out when paired with Richard Pryor or on his own in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory."

PHOTO: AP

John McLaughlin (Died Aug. 16 at 89)

One of the country's foremost political commentator's, he hosted "The McLaughlin Group" from 1982 until his death.

PHOTO: AP

Kenny Baker (Died Aug 13 at 81)

Baker was the man inside the can as the operator of lovable droid R2-D2 in the "Star Wars" films.

PHOTO: AP

Elie Wiesel (Died July 2 at 87)

This Jewish author's story "Night" describes his experiences in Nazi-run concentration camps, and his work as a steadfast defender of human rights led to a Nobel Peace Prize.

PHOTO: AP

Buddy Ryan (Died June 28 at 85)

Architect of the revered 1985 Chicago Bears defense, Ryan had a long, fruitful career working primarily behind the scenes.

PHOTO: AP

Pat Summit (Died June 28 at 64)

With 1,098 victories, no college basketball coach has won as many games as this Tennessee legend. Her resume includes eight national championships and a gold medal in the 1984 Olympics.

PHOTO: AP

Anton Yelchin (Died June 19 at 27)

One of Hollywood's bright young stars, he was best known for his performance as Chekhov in the new "Star Trek" films. His life was tragically cut short after dying by pinned against a wall by his car in a freak accident.

PHOTO: AP

Muhammad Ali (Died June 3 at 74)

Dubbed (often by himself) The Greatest, Ali lived up to that title as a champion boxer in the '60s and '70s, but the boisterous legend's greatest may have come outside of the ring during the social tumult of that era.

PHOTO: AP

Gordie Howe (Died June 10 at 88)

Mr. Hockey. It takes a lot to be nicknamed after an entire sport, but that was the legacy of this Detroit Red Wings all-timer who won six league MVP awards.

PHOTO: AP

Morley Safer (Died May 19 at 84)

The iconic “60 minutes” correspondent and CBS newsman died at the age of 84. CBS reports that Safer was a “huge presence on 60 minutes for 46 years.” "Morley was one of the most important journalists in any medium, ever," said CBS Chairman and CEO, Leslie Moonves. "He broke ground in war reporting and made a name that will forever be synonymous with 60 Minutes … .”

PHOTO: AP Images

Prince (Died April 21 at 57)

A brilliant talent, whether playing his guitar or showing off his incredible vocal range, this superstar was one of the best-selling musicians of all time. His 1984 record "Purple Rain" is considered his finest work.

MerleHaggard was a performer and songwriter who passed away at age 79, according to CMT.Haggard’s music combined a wide range of genres, suchas country, jazz, blues, and folk.Throughout his career, Haggard was a championof the working man, largely due to his rough-and-tumble history, reported CMT.

PHOTO: AP Images

Patty Duke (Died March 29 at 69)

A star from her teenage years, she won Emmys and Golden Globes for her roles, but her most important work may have been her mental health advocacy.

PHOTO: AP

Garry Shandling (Died March 24 at 66)

One of the transformative comedians of the late 20th century, he won great acclaim for the "The Larry Sanders Show."

PHOTO: AP

Sir George Martin ( Died March 9 at 90)

Martin died at the age of 90. He was most notably recognized as a producer of many of the Beatles’ songs. According to the Rolling Stone, Martin was affectionately called“The fifth Beatle.”

PHOTO: AP Images

Nancy Reagan (Died March 6 at 94)

First Lady to President Ronald Reagan, this former actress played an influential role in her husband's political life, though their romance also captured the nation's hearts. In the White House, one of her chief causes was drug abuse prevention.

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George Kennedy (Died Feb. 28 at 91)

A prolific performer, he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for 1967's "Cool Hand Luke" and stayed active in Hollywood for decades. His roles in the "Naked Gun" series and "Dallas" stand out.

PHOTO: AP

Harper Lee (Died Feb. 19 at 89)

This author's best known work is the American classic "To Kill a Mockingbird," as well as her work with Truman Capote.

PHOTO: AP

Boutros Boutros-Ghali (Died Feb. 16 at 93)

He was a renowned Egyptian politician who eventually rose to Secretary-General of the United Nations.

PHOTO: AP

Antonin Scalia (Died Feb. 13 at 79)

A fierce conservative member of the Supreme Court for nearly 30 years, Scalia chief focus on the bench was using an originalist interpretation of the Constitution in his decisions. His sudden death left a void in the court that had a major effect on the presidential race.

PHOTO: AP

Abe Vigoda (Jan. 26 at 94)

Famed for playing Tessio in "The Godfather," he was also an Emmy-winner for his work on "Barney Miller." False reports of his death were an ongoing joke he embraced for many years.

PHOTO: AP

Glenn Frey (January 18, 2016 at 67)

The musician passed away on January 18 due to complications with Rheumatoid Arthritis, said the Eagles website. Frey was 67 at the time and best known for being a founding member of the Eagles.

PHOTO: AP Images

Alan Rickman (Died Jan. 14 at 69)

From a gentlemanly thief in "Die Hard" to Harry Potter's dourly antagonistic professor, Rickman was a captivating and beloved screen presence.

PHOTO: AP

David Bowie (Died Jan. 10 at 69)

"Icon" may not be a strong enough word to describe this genre-bending British rocker whose alter ego, "Ziggy Stardust," made him a leading figure of glam rock in the '70s. He remained a force in the music world and released his final album just two days before his death.

PHOTO: AP

Notable deaths of 2016

From superstar celebs to political pillars, many famous faces left us this year

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Updated: 8:54 PM EST Dec 28, 2016

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Massive political upheaval. Social unrest across the country. A Cubs World Series win.

The 16th year of the millennium won't soon be forgotten. In the months of tumult, we lost many familiar faces from all walks of life.